Presidential Inauguration - February 20, 2004

The inauguration Friday of John Delaney as the University of North Florida's fifth permanent president was the climax of a week-long, campus celebration which included concerts, luncheons, receptions, art exhibits and a Distinguished Voices lecture.

Taking Flight was the theme for the inauguration. The theme was chosen because it represents the University's goal of taking its undergraduate and graduate programs to new heights. Monday's dedication of UNF's new, $22.6 million Science and Engineering Building, which opened for classes last month, was a part of the inauguration festivities. Newsweek columnist Fareed Zakaria was the featured speaker Monday night for the Distinguished Voices Lecture Series.

In his inauguration address, Delaney said to build on UNF's   legacy he will turn to the four guiding principles of UNF's Board of Trustees: a commitment to excellence; a commitment to focus; a commitment to relevance; and a commitment to accountability. "We at UNF must seek out our identity and unique potential and build on these," Delaney said. "We are a distinct and amazing institution that must celebrate our individuality, seeking our own destiny."

This was the first time in the University's history an inauguration was webcast. A link to the webcast was placed on the UNF home page.   Also for the first time, the inaugural procession began at the Arena. The 250-person   procession traveled a half-mile across campus to the Fine Arts Center where Delaney was inaugurated in the Lazzara Performance Hall. The procession, led by the Jacksonville Pipes and Drums, included three of the four former permanent presidents of UNF: Dr. Thomas Carpenter,   Dr. Adam Herbert and Dr. Anne Hopkins.

Gov. Jeb Bush was among the many dignitaries who spoke during the inauguration program which began at 10 a.m. in the Lazzara Performance Hall.

Mayor John Peyton, Dr. Jimmy R. Jenkins Sr., president of Edward Waters College and W. Radford Lovett II, president of the UNF Foundation also addressed the audience at the inauguration ceremony. Thomas F. Petway III introduced President Delaney. After the inauguration, President Delaney attended three receptions at locations near the Fine Arts Center.